Editing Shocker Paintball (section)

== History ==

=== Origins ===

The Shocker marker name originated with Smart Parts, which introduced the original electropneumatic Shocker in 1996.

Smart Parts subsequently developed the Shocker Sport, SFT and NXT platforms before entering bankruptcy proceedings in 2010.

Following the collapse of Smart Parts, the Gardner brothers established new business operations associated with GOG Paintball and DLX Technologies.

The Shocker product name returned in May 2015 under the '''SP''' branding, with SP representing Shocker Paintball rather than the former Smart Parts business.[1]

=== Shocker RSX ===

Shocker Paintball introduced its first marker, the '''Shocker RSX''', in 2015.

The RSX was a compact electronic spool-valve marker incorporating an OLED display, internal air routing, tool-free bolt removal and a Freak barrel system.

Although it retained the historic Shocker name, the RSX used a new operating mechanism rather than the original Smart Parts Shocker SFT or NXT design.[1]

The marker was marketed as an alternative to established electronic tournament markers in the upper-middle price range. A July 2015 review by Joshua D. Silverman listed a US price of $799 and measured the marker at 1 lb 10 oz. The review also documented its use in professional competition by [[Seattle Thunder]].[11]

The RSX adopted Autococker barrel threads, differing from the Shocker, Luxe and GOG threading used on earlier equipment. Its standard features included anti-chop eyes, an adjustable double trigger, a clamping feedneck and an on/off air-system adapter. It was supplied in a protective case with a barrel, tools, grease and spare parts.[11]

=== RSX safety recall ===

On 10 August 2016, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of approximately 5,200 Shocker RSX markers.

The recall concerned a defective main chamber component that could unexpectedly eject from the rear of the marker, creating a risk of injury.

Eight incidents involving chamber failures had been reported, with no injuries recorded at the time of the announcement.

Affected markers had been sold between May 2015 and August 2016.

Shocker Paintball provided replacement chamber components through an official recall programme.[3]

=== Shocker XLS ===

In 2017, Shocker Paintball introduced the '''Shocker XLS''', an updated electronic marker based on the RSX platform.

The XLS incorporated revised ergonomics, lower operating pressure and the Freak XL barrel system.

It retained the compact spool-valve design and tool-free maintenance features introduced with the RSX.[4]

=== Shocker CVO ===

In 2018, the company introduced the '''Shocker CVO''' (Cam Valve Operation), a mechanical paintball marker based on the XLS platform.

The CVO replaced the electronic firing controls with a mechanical system using a roller-actuated pilot valve.

The marker was designed for recreational and competitive mechanical paintball.

Shocker Paintball also developed mechanical conversion frames for owners of compatible electronic Shocker markers.[5]

=== Shocker AMP ===

In 2020, Shocker Paintball introduced the '''Shocker AMP''' (Advanced Modular Platform).

The AMP featured a redesigned bolt and valve assembly, updated electronics and improvements intended to simplify maintenance.

The marker also supported conversion between electronic and mechanical operation using interchangeable trigger frames.

The AMP was introduced ahead of the 2020 [[National Xball League]] World Cup.

Contemporary reporting identified Seattle Thunder, AC: Diesel and AC: Dallas among the professional teams scheduled to use the new marker.[6]

=== Shocker ERA ===

The '''Shocker ERA''' was introduced at the 2023 NXL World Cup.

The new marker incorporated a redesigned bolt assembly, revised internal air passages, updated electronics and modified ergonomics.

It retained the Freak XL barrel system, with a 15-inch All American ported barrel tip.[7]

The ERA remained part of the Shocker Paintball product range in 2026.

The company also offered custom versions developed in collaboration with Method Development, incorporating revised internal components and custom body milling.[8]